Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS)

In the run-up to the elections, human rights groups highlight double standards that prevent opposition activists from voicing their opinions.

Human rights groups say the only crime their colleagues are being tried for is the poor state of human rights in Egypt.

The IFEX-TMG strongly condemns the 15 July arrest of journalist Fahem Boukaddous, who is in poor health, and calls on Tunisia’s partners to speak out to help save his life.

The IFEX-TMG urges authorities to end to the “shameful use of the judiciary to stifle free expression and punish critical journalists” follow ing confirmation of a four-year sentence for Fahem Boukaddous.

Independent journalists, including Taoufik Bouachrine and Ali Amar, are increasingly being targeted by the authorities.

Attorney Muhannad al-Hassani was referred to a judge for questioning due to his human rights work, specifically his reports on exceptional trials before the High State Security Court.

The IFEX-TMG, a coalition of 20 IFEX members, condemns the Tunisian Chamber of Deputies’ adoption of a new law hastily tailored to stifle freedom of expression both inside and outside the country.

In a joint statement to the UNHRC, the two organisations expressed support for the opinion that laws on “defamation of religions” are incompatible with international human rights law on freedom of expression.